Jorge Enrique Lopera MD, Presenter: Nothing to Disclose

Rajeev Suri MD, Abstract Co-Author: Nothing to Disclose

Ghazwan M. Faozi Kroma MD, Abstract Co-Author: Nothing to Disclose

Andres Eugenio Garza-Berlanga MD, Abstract Co-Author: Nothing to Disclose

To study potential problems of  line entrapment and filter migration when SVC filters are placed over central lines.

Five types of filters (Celect, Günter Tulip (GT), Optease, Option and Eclipse) were tested using a model created by placing a 22 mm PTFE graft inside a plastic tubing. The model was submerged in warm saline and the “jugular” filters were deployed under fluoroscopic guidance simulating a femoral (inferior) approach. The filters were deployed over 4 different types of central lines (10 Fr double lumen port, 7 Fr triple lumen, 5 Fr PICC line and 14 Fr Hemodialysis (HD) catheter ).The position of the legs of the filters in relationship to the central lines was studied by fluoroscopic and direct inspection. The lines were then removed under fluoroscopic guidance nothing any line trapping, migration and/or tilting of the filters.

Each type of filter was deployed twice over each type of central line (total 40 deployments). Fluoroscopic movement of the central lines was commonly seen when displaced by the legs of the filters, however no perforation or line trapping by the legs of the filters was noted. A Celect filter leg was severely tilted over the 14 Fr HD catheter  . No resistance, filter migration or filter tilting was noted when the lines were removed with the Celect, GT, Eclipse and Option filters. With the Optease filter, superior migration of the filter (1/2 filter length and few mms) during line retrieval was noted only with the 14 Fr HD catheter.

In this in-vitro model simulating SVC filter placement over different types of central lines, movement of the central lines when displaced by the legs of the filters was commonly seen , however,  no perforation or trapping of the lines by the legs of the filters was noted. Superior migration of the Optease filter was noted with during a 14 Fr HD line retrieval .

SVC filter placement can be complicated in many patients by the presence of existing central lines. In this in-vitro model, entrapment of the lines or filter migration was rarely observed.

Lopera, J, Suri, R, Kroma, G, Garza-Berlanga, A, Superior Vena Cava (SVC) Filters Placed over Central Lines: Analysis of Line Trapping and Difficulties with Line Retrieval—In Vitro Study.  Radiological Society of North America 2011 Scientific Assembly and Annual Meeting, November 26 - December 2, 2011 ,Chicago IL. http://archive.rsna.org/2011/11000652.html